JR Smith Not Traded by Cavaliers Amid Cleveland's Deadline Shake-Up

The Cleveland Cavaliers didn't complete a deal involving shooting guard JR Smith before Thursday's trade deadline despite turning over a significant portion of their roster. 

While Smith is safe, the Cavaliers reportedly parted ways with Isaiah Thomas, Iman Shumpert, Channing Frye, Jae Crowder, Dwyane Wade and Derrick Rose in various deals to acquire Jordan Clarkson, Larry Nance Jr., Rodney Hood and George Hill. 

Smith has struggled to make an impact this season despite being given a prominent role by the Cavs. He's averaging 8.2 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists while shooting 38.5 percent from the field across 52 appearances (49 starts). 

Along with his lack of individual production, Cleveland dealt with a couple of different losing streaks during the first half of the campaign that raised questions about whether it remains a legitimate title contender.

Defense is the biggest problem. The Cavaliers rank 29th in defensive efficiency, and Smith hasn't been doing much to help the cause, rating 69th among qualified shooting guards in defensive real plus-minus, according to ESPN.com.

In early January, Dave McMenamin of ESPN.com noted Cavs head coach Tyronn Lue held an "extensive film session" to highlight the team's defensive shortcomings, and Thomas said the message was clear.

"I mean we watched film and you could just see it," he said. "[Lue] doesn't even have to say anything. Film doesn't lie, and we just got to be more physical. We've got to be the aggressor at both ends of the floor, and when we do that we're a tough team to beat, no matter who we're playing."

It was easier to overlook Smith's issues on defense when he was providing key offensive production. With his scoring numbers down so far this year, it wasn't a shock when his name popped up in the rumor mill.

Ultimately, it's no surprise the Cavs weren't able to find a trade partner for Smith. Along with his declining numbers, he has one more guaranteed year left on his contract with a $14.7 million cap hit, according to Spotrac. He also has a $3.9 million partial guarantee for the 2019-20 season. 

All Cleveland can do is hope he returns to form down the stretch to give the offense a boost once playoff time rolls around.